County Observer and Monmouthshire Central Advertiser Abergavenny and Raglan Herald Usk and Pontypool Messenger and Chepstow Argus

CAERLEON. I Agent,—Hits M. A. Evans. Newsagent, Cross-street, I Mr Eatchard, Mill Street. I I URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING. The usual monthly meeting of the Urban District Council was held at the Endowed Schools, Caerleon, on Tuesday evening. The chair was taken by the Rev. D. B. Jones, in the absence of the chairman, Mr. T. Parry and there were also present:—Messrs. J. H. Taylor, W. Welsford, W. Williams, T. Jenkins, A. Ll. Edwards, and D. W. Jenkins, together with the Clerk (Mr. T. R. P. Herbert), the Surveyor (Mr. J. Harris), the Medical Officer of Health (Dr. C. W. de Gruchy), and the Collector. The Chairman explained the reason of Mr. T. Parry's absence, he having gone to London on business. CORRESPONDENCE. A letter was read from the Charity Commissioners relating to a proposed sale of lands belonging to Williams' Charity, and asking if the Council had any objection to the proposed sale. A schedule of the lands in question was enclosed. It was stated that certain lands were to be exchanged, and the Council decided that there was no objection to the sale. SURVEYOR'S REPORT. The Surveyor's report stated that the Main Roads Inspection Committee of the County Council visited Caerleon on June 14th, and were met by the Vice-Chairman and himself. The committee consisted of Dr. James, Alderman 7 vrris, Messrs. W. Edwards, C. Tillott, and J. "ionks, with the County Surveyor (Mr. W. Tai^nc ). The committee were shown over the proposed improvements, and half the cost was asked for. The committee were satisfied with the proposed works, and seemed disposed to make the grant referred to. It was reported that to admit of the proper drainage of Mr. Glover's property by connection with the main sewer, it would be necessary to construct a branch under the old Mill Stream, and to do this it would be necessary to serve a notice -011 the stream owner. FINANCE. Accounts which had been before the Finance Committee, and amounted in the aggregate to X82 4s. 9d. were recommended for payment. The principal items were £45 to the Gas Company, £ 21 to the Newport Corporation, and wages £ 4. LIGHTING SYSTEM. The Chairman said he thought it was the time to consider their lighting system, as they would be --in the lighting season by the next meeting. It ] was generally considered that some alterations were necessary, and a report had been presented proposing to extend the time of lighting so as to extend from August 1st to May 31st. The Surveyor thought that the extra cost would be £6 10s. Mr. Taylor thought it was inexpedient to spend any more on lighting, and it would be well to defer the matter till next meeting. The Rev. D. B. Jones expressed his belief in light as being a civilizer. He suggested they should see the Gas Company. Mr. A. LI. Edwards said it would be a pity to go to the Gas Company unless they were pretty well decided on having the alterations made. Mr. Taylor thought it would be best for the Clerk to write to the Gas Company, and have that before them. The sum total of the proposed alterations would be that they would get 52 days more lighting, and light one hour earlier. Mr. Taylor moved that the Clerk write to the Gas Company. Mr. T. Jenkins seconded. Mr. Edwards said that the expense would be an addition of 2 per cent. to the expenses. This was agreed to with one dissentient. The Collector reported that he had paid in 120. The meeting then terminated. +

CHEPSTOW. I Agent.—Mr Clart CHEPSTOW CASTLE.—At the meeting of the Chepstow District Council on Monday evening, Mr. Phillips referred to the newspaper statements that the Government were considering the advisability of purchasing Tintern Abbey and Raglan Castle, and he suggested that Colonel the Hon. F. C, Morgan, the local member of Parlia- ment, should be asked to use his influence to induce the Government to purchase Chepstow Castle, which was of more historic interest than Raglan. The suggestion met with general assent. The Clerk suggested that a deputation of the Council should wait upon the Commissioner of Woods and Forests and urge the matter upon him, and that the town gate and town wall should be included in their request. It was ultimately resolved to communicate with Colonel Morgan, and that if it were his wish a deputation of the Council should wait upon the Com- missioner. BOARD op GUARDIANS' MEETING.—This Board met on Saturday, with H. Clay, Esq., in the chair. A letter was read from the Pontypool Union, asking the Board to accept the charge of Thomas J. Foxall. detained as a lunatic, and who was for some years stationed at Shirenewfcon Police Station.— Mr. Lang mentioned that Foxall came from a Welsh district.-The Clerk was afraid the Board must accept him, and promised to make inquiries.-The Local Government Board wrote sanctioning the proposed plan of dietary at the Cottage Home, and suggesting that the Board should consider the adop- tion of a maximum weekly allowance for children. -Mr. Seys said the Committee had already practi- cally followed that plan. Mr, Williams and he had visited the Home, and found everything satisfac- tory. The children, he added, looked remarkably happy, and expressed no wish to return to the House. He referred to the advisability of arranging for the attendance of a medical man at the Cottage Home, and, after some discussion, it was decided to appoint Dr. Corbin, the question of salary to be again considered. The Master's report was read, as follows :—12th week, vagrants 11, last year 14, relieved outside 4, night's lodgings 36 13th week, 11, 12, 4, 23.-The Clerk said he had received monthly statements for June from Lydney, Tiden- ham, Chapel Hill, Langwm Ucha, and Tintern.

GROSMONT. THB CHURCH SPIRE.-From a balance sheet that naa been issued it appears that the amount paid to the contractor, Mr. Joseph Blackburn, Gresham Works, Nottingham, for the late restoration of the Church spire, was £ 91 17s. Of this amount the Right Bon. Lord Llangattock, with his usual generosity, contributed the sum of S65 6s. 6d. It is now believed that the spire is in a thoroughly satisfactory condition. -+-

MONMOUTH DISTRICT TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION. The annual meeting of the above Association was held in the Board School, Glendower-street, Monmouth, on Saturday, July 1st, at 11 a.m. The Vice-President, Mr. Rees, of Redbrook, was in the chair. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and passed without comment. The election of officers for the ensuing year was then proceeded with. Mr. James Cooper, Tregare Board School, was unanimously elected vice- president, and Mr. Davies, St. Mary's Boys' School, Monmouth, was unanimously elected secretary in the place of Miss Harris, Board School, Monmouth, to whom the thanks of the members of the Association are due for past services, willingly and cheerfully rendered. Mr. C. J. Saunders, Raelan National Schocl, then read a paper on the Elementary Teachers' Superannuation Act of 1898. The paper having been read many questions relating to the Act were addressed to the reader and satisfactorily answered. The Secretary brought forward the cor- respondence received since the last meeting, which was read and considered. The meeting then terminated. In the afternoon a general meeting of the teachers within the district supervised by A. J. Alexander, Esq., H.M. Inspector, was held in the above school at 2 p.m. There were a very large number of teachers present from all parts of the county, and the large attendance must have been very pleasing to Messrs. Alexander and Horne, H.M. Inspectors, at whose initiative the meeting was held, and who were both present to address the assembled teachers. Mr. C. J. Saunders, Raglan, took the chair, and briefly stated the object of the meeting. Mr. Alexander then gave a most eloquent address on matters educational, and on resuming his seat was loudly applauded. Mr. W. D. Lewis, Llangattock-Vibon-Avel, next gave a most interesting and instructive model lesson on voice training. The singing of the lads brought by Mr. Lewis was much admired. At the conclusion, Mr. Alexander proposed a vote of thanks in most apprcptiate terms to Mr. Lewis, which was unanimously accorded. Mr. Horne now gave an earnest address which breathed throughout the spirit of the true educationalist. He pleaded that teachers should take the highest ideal of their noble work, not merely looking upon the child as a machine for producing certain tangible results, but as a being whose physical, intellectual, and moral powers, they were to train and develop so as to fit it for taking its position in society. The addresa was greatly appreciated, and should encourage teachers to take a high ideal of their profession. Af f. James Cooper, Tregare, then proposed, and Mr. Milham, Norton's Cross, seconded a vote of thanks to the Inspectors for their kindness in attending and addressing the meeting. The vote was declared unanimously carried amid much applause. Tea was provided for those who wished to take it at a nominal charge. A Publisher's Exhibition was held in the covered court. Mr. Horne, who undertook this part of the arrangements, deserves the thanks of the teachers for thus providing them with an opportunity of seeing the latest educational publications, &c. Thanks are also due to Miss Harris, Miss Jones, and their assistants, and Mr. Davies for undertaking the arrangements necessary for the meeting.

THE PARISH CHURCH. I To the Editor of The County Observer. DEAR SIR,-Will you permit me, through your columns to call the attention of our fellow parishioners to the urgent necessity for their contributions to the fund being raised for the restoration of our Church. The Committee propose to issue a report and appeal in the course of a short. time, to which a local subscription list will be annexed, aud this it is most desirable should be as large and representative as possible. The smallest, as well as larger subscriptions, will be thankfully received and acknowledged by the Vicar or myself (as Hon. Treasurer), to whom the amounts already promised should be paid. Yours faithfully, ROBERT RICKARDS. The Priory, July 5th, 1899.

Cricket. I USK V. CAERLEON. I This match was played on the former's ground on Saturday afternoon in cheerless weather. The visitors, who won the toss, elected to bat, and Le Vieconte and B. Smith started the innings to the bowling of Mayes and W. F. Roberts, about four o'clock. The venture closed for 106, the brothers Smith contributing 29 and 22 respectively, whilst A. Golledge and L. F. Stedman ran into double figures. Mayes, W. F. Roberts, F. Hill, and W. H. Creese divided the bowling honours. Usk were left about one hour only iu which to get their runs, but so heartily did they apply themselves to the task that in about 50 minutes they had won the match, and at the drawing of stumps—7 o'clock—were the victors by 8 runs for the loss of five wickets. This was a good performance, and hardly anticipated, the two principal contributors being G. Edmonds, not out, 38, and Mayes, 27. Caerleon appeared to score fairly fast, but the homesters fairly put their opponents in the shade by scoring at the rate of about two a minute. Scores CAERLEON. L. Visconte, b Mayes 3 B. Smith, c G. Edmunds, b Creese.. 29 L. F. Stedman, c Adams, b F. Hill, 11 F. Smith, b W. F.Roberts. 22 Rev. Sprowle, c Roberts, b W. Creese 1 A. Jones, b W. F. Roberts. 1 G. Jeremiah, b W. F. Roberts 0 A. Golledge, b W. H. Creese. 14 A. Edmonds, not out 6 T. Ablart, b Mayes 0 Extrae. 20 Total 106 vsx. W. H. Creese, b F, Smith 11 S. A. Hiley, c Stedman, b F. Smith.. 16 Lieut. Ker, c Le Visconte, b F. Smith 4 Mayes, b Stedman 27 G. Edmunds, not out 38 Capt. Patch, b Ablart. 13 F. Hill, not out 1 Lieut. Adams H. C. Davies W. F. Roberts J. Waters Extras. 4 Total.114

I Aitt ;I i THE STUDY OF FLOWERS. I CHAPTER xxiri. I HONEYSUCKLE (Lonicera Periclymenum). Class, Pentandria; Order, Monogynia. This universal favourite twining shrub in July decorates the hedges in most parts of England, and is well known for the delicious odour of its blossoms. which are of a yellowish white colour with red streaks. We seldom take a walk at this season without observing this lovely flower running along the tops of the hedges, and delighting our senses with its sweet perfume, which is much stronger after a shower. The common Honeysuckle or Woodbine, seems to be especially cultivated by peasants, being so often seen trained round the entrances to their cottages and about their casements, intermixed with the China Rose, where you See the Honeysuckle twine Round the casement; 'tis a shrine Where the heart doth incense give And the pure affections live, In its wild state it is not confined to the hedge rows, but in the tangled wood it is found clasping 11 the adjoining branches, and even springing from the clifts of rocks, and -It loves to crawl Up the low crag and ruined wall. Milton in his well-known couplet- Through the sweetbriar or the vine Or the twisted Eglantine, Seems to give it the name of "Eglantine," the old name for the Sweetbriar; though in Comus he speaks of it as the "flaunting Honeysuckle." It is commonly called Woodbiue" as Mason beautifully described it- The Woodbine wild, That loves to hang on barren boughs Her wreath of remote flowery perfume. This elegant shrub we sometimes see lovingly entwining the gnarled trunk of an aged oak with its supple and delicate arms, and may exclaim- How rich the prize, how gay the flower, Sweeter than all which bloom in bower, We deemed this woodbine wild We sought it long, and sought in Tain, Now finding it, we felt again The joy which as a child Had filled our breast with glad delight, Had pleased the sense of smell and sight -When flowers wild we found We pluck'd the beauty from its tbrone- The beauty there we'd found alone Of all the country round. It has a light and negligent air, and trained against our cottages- Copious of flowers, the Woodbine pale and wan, But weil compensating her sickly looks With never changing odours, early and late, The Honeysuckle is the emblem of generous and devoted affection such as described by Moore in the following lines:- Oh let me only breathe the air, That blessed air that's breathed by thee And whether on its wings it bear Healing or death, 'tis sweet to me There—drink my tears while yet they fall, Would that my bosom's blood were balm, And well thou know'st I'd shed it all To give thy brow one minute's calm. The pale Perfoliate Honeysuckle (Lonicera Perifolium, the blossoms of which are terminal, and contain six blossoms in each cluster, under which is a leaf perforated by the stem, is found growing in thickets, but not very frequently. J.H.C. I

Forgiving Murderer. I The convict, Josiah Cornelius Parker, whose execution for the murder of his sweetheart is fixed for Tuesday morning next., at Northampton Gaol, has sent a letter to his parents as follows: Dear Father and Mother,—I really can't realise I am going to be hanged. It does not seem true to me. I hope God will forgive me, and help me to bear up to the end from this dreadful ein, so that I may die happy and gain that beautiful world beyond. I do hope I am not lost for ever. Tell my sisters not to grieve for me, but to pray for me and forgive me this disgrace I have caused them None of us know what an hour may bring forth, Those who have wronged me freely forgive. Dear father, remember me to all my shopmates. With best love to all, your very affectionate son, J. C. Parker."

Markets. I USK, CATTLE, Monday.—The supply of sheep and pigs was very fair. but that of cattle was again rather small. Prices obtained were :—Heifer beef, 6d to 6d per lb., cow beef, bid to 6d., wether mutton, 7d to 8d., ewe mutton, 6d., lamb, 8d to 9J., cows and calves, 112 to jE15, yearling cattle, X8 to ZCIO, two-year-olds, £12 to £15, sows and pigs, E7 to JE7 10s., and stores 24s to 30s. NEWPORT, CATTLE, Wednesday.—There was an average supply of stock to-day, and a brisk trade. Quotations Best beef, 6cl per lb seconds, 5:id to 6d best wether mutton, 7Jd; ewes, 6d; lamb, 8d; veal, 7d to 7Jd; porker pigs, 9s 3d to 9s 6d per score. NEWPORT, CORN, Wednesday.—There was a fair amount of business to-day. Barley was fully Is per quarter dearer on the week, and seems likey to rise higher; small maize showed an advance of 6d to 9d per quarter, other sorts being unchanged. Bran was a trifle cheaper, owing to more plentiful supply. Sharps unchanged. Wheat and flour easy at late rates. NEWPORT, CHEESE, Wednesday.—An improved pitch," and the trade maintained a brisk tone throughout the day. Prices showed a 2s advance all round. Caerphillies, 44s to 46s; fancy dairies, 47s to 49s; truckles, 50a; doubles, 44s to 48f! per cwt.

Lady Llangattock and Open Spaces. Lady Llangattock, who was accompanied by Lord Llangattock, dedicated to the public two open spaces in London situated on either side of the New Kent-ioad-tbe Paragon and Portland- place Gardens. There is, probably, more need for such open spaces here than in any other district in London, for within a radius of half a. mile of these two small plots 50,000 people live and work. The Paragon was formerly a crescent of twelve houses, and when these were demolished Lord Llangattock offered a plot of some 4,000 square yards to the Metropolitan Public Gardens Associa- tion for £ 3,400, towards which he contributed £ 1,000. The London County Council gave 91,700, St. George's Vestry, £600, and St. Mary's, Newington, the balance. Portland-place open space, covering 525 square yards, has been leased for eighty years to St. George's Vestry by the Trustees of St. Bartholomew's Hospital for the nominal rent of Is. per annum. The grounds are laid out as flower gardens, with walks and when Lady Llangattock declared them open crowds streamed in, while the Surrey Military Band played Reminiscences of England."

"DREW His SIDE ARM CLEAR."—A Milford Haven correspondent states that the annual inspection of the Glamorgan Artillery Militia was made on Wednesday morning of Fort Hubberston by the general commanding the South Wales district. After the inspection, when the men had fallen out of the ranks, an altercation occurred between some gunners belonging to the second company, in the course of which a gunner drew his bayonet and stabbed another gunner, named Hammett who became unconscious and expired in a few minutes. His assailant was immediately arrested. An inquest was held on Thursday. Verdict of Wilful murder" against Beddoe. The prisoner was subsequently charged and remanded until Wednesday next. r j

CURRENT TOPICS, VOLTTXREER BEVIBW. The Prince of Wales is to be present at a great Volunteer Review on the Horse Guards Parade, on Saturday, the 8th of July. The War Office has decided that only Volunteer Corps of the London District may take part in the proceedings, but it is nevertheless expected that from twentv-seven to twenty-eight thousand men will be present. Stands have been erected for the accommodation of the members of the Houses of Parliament, and ober privileged spectators. Only fine weather is needed to ensure a really grand and imposing review, such as is too seldom seen in this country. The present year is the fortieth anniversary of the first enrolment of Volunteers in their present formation. When the movement commenced there were not wanting those who predicted that it was a national craze which would soon pass away. At the outset the Volunteers had to provide their own uniforms, accoutrements, and arms, as well as fiud military instruotors-all at their own expense. '\Vh"ln they had done this, the State would graciously accept their services, and for a long time the Volunteers received neither gratitude nor encouragement from the military authorities. When the War Office at last conceived the idea that something better might, be done a steady improvement set in, and no one would now deny that the Volunteers form a useful and most important factor in our means of national defence. THE HEIB TO THE COBURG THRONE. I It has been definitely settled that the youbhful Duke of Albany is to be the heir to the throne of Coburg. When Prince Alfred died, the Duke of Connaught announced that he and bis "house" would take up the duties which devolved upon him in the succession. The announcement was received with some surprise in this country where the Duke is one of the most popular members of the Royaot Family. But he seems to have taken this course only in the interests of his son, who, however, quickly showed the greatest reluatance to leave Eton and give up his prospects of a British career, in order to become a German princelet. This became known to the people of Coburg and Gotha, who resented the idea that their throne was going a-begging, and manifested their dissatisfaction with this indefinite state of things. It is now arranged that the succession will pass to the Duke of Albany, who is fifteen years of age this month. He will become competent to reign when he is eighteen, and he will at once leave for Germany, where he will complete his education and enter the German Army. RESTORING SALMON TO THE THAMES. I The Thames Salmon Association has been formed with the object of restoring the king of fish to London's river. It was once a notable salmon stream, but that was long ago. and it is believed the last specimen was caught in 1821. About 35 years ago an attempt was made to reintroduce the salmon, but that was when the Thames was at its worst. as regards foulnesf, from chemicals and refuse, and the experiment, failed. But of late years the condition of the river has been much improved by more stringent regulations, and large quantities of salt water and fresh-water fish have re-appeared in the tidal reaches. It is therefore thought that it may be possible to once more make the Thames a salmon river. Tha Association at any rate propose to carry out a series of experiments, and a meeting was held the other day, under the presidency of the Lord Mayor of London, to promote this object. Arrangements will be made to establish hatcheries for rearing and turning the fish into the river near the tideway, when they are old enough to go to the sea. These operations are to be continued for five years, in the hope that the salmon will be able to make the journey down the river. As a rule salmon in returning from the salt water always make for the river where they were produced. This has long been questioned and doubtej, but repeated experiments with marked fish seem to prove this beyond all dispute. The difficulty with regard to the locks on the Thames would be overcome by the construction of ladders or passes. Whether these new experiments are altogether in the interests of the general body of anglers, is open to question. The Thames is free to anglers for some 30 miles beyond London Bridge, but if salmon again take to the river the Upper reaches would soon be closed to the public by claims for exclusive fishing rights. SCARCITY OF FlWIT. I The fruit crop in almost all its varieties is a failure in many parts of the country this year. It is much the same all over Europe, which is a good thing for the British grower, as, though his crops are scanty, he is getting the benefit of much higher prices. The consumer has no such consolation, and summer fruit promise,3 to be both dear and scarce this season. It is a pity, as it seems to be a fact that the British production of fruit is increasing largely, and,| at the same time, improving in quality and selections. The French Fruit Trader3, it appears, are becoming alarmed at the permanent aud increas- ing competition of British growers. There is no doubt that the industry only wants energy and attention to make it a flourishing one in this country. Unfortunately we do not take the pains with it as is the case in other countries. Canada has made a special study of fruit growing, and we see the result in the enormous quantities of apples and other produce which come over, and are sold here at the highest prices. There are a number of experimental farms in Canada, and experts have ransacked every part of the world for the best varieties of all kinds of fruits. Thus, for instance, some six or seven hundred varieties of apples were being tested in the orchards last year, and it is the same with strawberries, plums, gooseberries, all of which are being studied for their productiveness and adaptability to the sail and climate. It is not the custom in this country for the Government to undertake work of this kind, but it might be done by some central organisation with the greatest advantage to our agriculturalists. I HOW MILLIONS ABE MADB." I Mr. Andrew Carnegie explains How Millions are Made in an article in the first number of the Daily News Weekly. He believes the greatest of all advantages with which to begin life, is that of being poor. If one is brought up in the midst of a parent's struggle with adversity, so much the better, as an early ambition to help in driving the wolf from the door is one of the strongest incentives which lead to success. Mr. Carnegie, as is well known, was born sixty-two years ago in Dunfermline, in Scotland, but in his eleventh year he went to Pittsburg in the United States with his parents. He went to school there for two years, and commenced life in 1850 as a boy attendant at a small stationary engine. Afterwards he worked his way up in the telegraph and railway services, and turned his attention to a new system of sleeping cars, and to certain oil mills. Finally with considerable capital at his back, Mr. Carnegie joined others in starting the great iron and steel works at Pittsburg, which have long acquired a world-wide reputation as the leading concern in the industry. It has brought immense wealth to lfr. Carnegie, who is said to be worth as much as 30 or 40 millious sterling. He has always been very generous with his money in works of philanthropy, and quite recently announced that he intended to devote the great bulk of his wealth to such objects in this country. HOW TO ACQUIRE LONGEVITY. There are some classes of persons that live much longer than others. Clergymen for instance are thelongest lived of any. while publicans are at the other end of the list. There is no doubt that the mind has a good deal to do with length of years. A placid temperament is almost an essential condition to longevity. Unfortunately many of the chief characteristics in favour of the centenarian are outside our control. It is all important to be "of spare habit" which is constitutional-of medium height, which is proverbially a matter of unalterable destiny, and one's family must also have contracted the habit of living to eighty or ninety. There are many contributory conditions, which, if we like, we can arrange for ourselves in living a healthy and intellectual life. j THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S COGRBS8. IThe proceedings at the International Women's Congress have been greatly hampered by the ovircrowdiu- of the subjects discussed. So many delegates were invited to read papers that only ten minutes could be allowed to each. This was quite inadequate for the proper treatment of most of the subjects under discussion, especially as none of the delegates had prepared their discourse with any such limitation of time in view. The range of q uestions in which women are taking an active part might be said to cover the whole field of human endeavour. Education, prison reform, the labour question, women ill the arts, on the stage, and iu the professions, are but a few of the subjects that were discussed. Unfortunately, the value of most of the meetings was destroyed by the tea minutes rule, and the time was thus frittered away without any definite or useful results. On many subjects it was only possible to caf-ch the general drift of opinion. Ou the question of the suffrage, it was of course a foregone conclusion, as Lord Halsbury would say, as everyone in his senses might have known. There is a difference of opinion between the two Houses of Parliament on the question of womeu in municipal affairs, and the Lord Chancellor made it clear that he is one of those who believe that woman must change her nature and disposition before she can be fitted to take part in public affairs. The Lord Chancellor ts supposed to be the keeper of the Queen's conscience, and it would be interesting to know what Her Majesty thinks of the opinions. '<-

The Unrest in Europe. Whilst attention is diverted to the Transvaal few observers can fail to be struck with the general state of uurestaud discontent in Europe. In almost every country except our own there is there is deep-rooted disaffection with political and social institutions, and in many parts of the Continent this is a serious and standing danger to the cause of law and order. In Spain and Italy we see the people rapidly ripening for revolution under a crushing load of burdens. In Belgium the Socialist movement is seriously menacing the Monarchy, and in Germany and Austria similar forces, if less apparent on the surface, are growing daily among the people. Then of all the Western nations, one would turn with least, confidence to France with regard to the permanence and stability of her system of Government. The Dreyfus affair, with its violent Anti-Semitism, has brought the name of France into contempt in such a sense as is not coaveyed by auy mere figure of speech. It has wrecked the faith of the Army in its leaders, it has ruined the confidence of the people in their rulers, and if this is not actually the case it is SO MUCH THE WORSE FOR FRANCE, because it would show that Frenchmen have abandoned that respect for justice and public character, which alone can give them any claim to the position of one of the leading Powers of the world. Considering the constant changes, and the desp-rate plights into which France is plunged every now and again in order to maintain some system of government, there is no country in which the future can be regarded with less confidence. In Germany there is a conflict between the workers and the Govern- ment over the so-called Labour Protection Bill, which really threatens every striker and agitator with penal servitude. The real author of the measure is the Kaiser, and, though the Germans are wrapped up in their commercial and material prosperity, there is a good deal o discontent with all the things he represents The trouble in Brussels where there has been SERIOUS STREET RIOTING is over the new Electoral Bill. The franchise frequently the cause of strife, and ia Belgium, as in the Traasvaal, it is just now threatening the gravest consequences. In Belgium every citizen has a vote, but in addition one or two supplementary votes are given to the well-to-do people, according to age and position. The preponderance of power is therefore with the educated classes. At the elections last year, 930,000 clerical votes returned 112 Deputies, whereas the remaining 980,000 of the electorate only succeeded iu returning 40 Socialists or Liberals. The votes polled in Brussels were 90,000 Clericals, 00,000 Socialists, and 40,000 Liberals. Yet the eighteen seats of the capital are all held by Clerical Deputies. This disproportion was, to some extent, due to divisions between the more advanced parties- the Socialists helping the Clericals, at the expense of the Liberals, where they could not win themselves. They have now agreed upon a working alliance, and the Clericals, becoming uneasy at their threatened loss of power, HATS BROUGHT IN A BILL which reconstitutes the constituences greatly in their favour. It is this state of things that has led to the cry of Vive la Republique and to violent scenes in the Chamber, and in the streets, and large numbers of the people are heart and soul with the rioters. There have also been un- paralleled scenes of violence in the Italian Chamber over the Law of Public Safety Bill. Italy was on the verge of a revolution last year at the time of the bread riots, at Milan, and other leading cities. The Socialists violently attacked the Bill which forbids combination, public meetings, and seriously restricts the liberty of the people. It was thereupon declared to have the authority of law by the exercise of the Royal Prerogative, and it will be surprising if this does not lead to a grave Constitutional crisis, In Austria this result is only avoided by the shutting up of Parliament and the aged Emperor is probably the only man who can keep the ship of State off the rocks of a racial conflict for supremacy. In Spain the forces of disorder are prover bial, and, in the opinion of many, they have lo ng been gathering for a general eruption in the Peninsula. There is evidence of this in a revival of CA RLIST ACTIVITY, and a renewal of rioting in some of the principal cities. Even in Norway and Sweden where one would look last of all for storm-clouds, there is serious trouble, owing to the dissatisfaction of the Norwegians with the Daal Monar chy. Both countries have been arming, after the fashion of Europe, only in their case the armaments are directed agains t one another. It is not only in one but in many countries that popular discontent is taking the form of resistance to the Government. That, of course, is always the first step in a revolution, of which the warnings can be very clearly seen in many parts of the Continent.

Proposed Appeal to Earl Cawdor. At a conference of the delegates representing the Great Western goods guards, brakesmen, and shunters, held at Gloucester on Sunday, expressions of dissatisfaction were given with the replies received from Mr, Wilkinsoa, the general manager, to the repeated applications made for an interview with the directors by the representatives of the above grades, who are seeking a reduction of hours of labour.—It was resolved that au appeal be sent direct to Earl Cawdor, asking for an interview with the direc- tors, as they have publicly stated they are always prepared to meet the representatives of their staff. For three years the men have appealed for this to be granted through Mr. Wilkinson, but their effort has been futile.

Monmouthshire Assizes. The Summer Assizes for the County were opened at the Shire Hall, Monmouth, on Thurs- day morning, before Sir John Charles Day. [ [Proceeding.]

LLANGIBBY. H M. INSPECTOR'S REPOIaT.-The following is the Inspectors report on the Llangibby Sohool "Very good instruction is given, and satisfactory progress made. The school at the visit of inspection .-was found not to be well supplied with apparatus." —The grant obtained on the average attendance has for the first time reaohed Xi Os. 6d. per child.

I lluntrissent. FLOWER SHOW AND FETE.—This annual gathering, which took place on Wednesday, was somewhat marred by the inclemency of the weather in the afternoon. Fortunately, however, the evening turned out fine, and consequently a fair number of visitors arrived upon the scene. After tea had been done justice to, th.j party adjourned to a meadow close by, where dancing to the music of the Usk Volunteer Band wis indulged in. Steam round- abouts, shooting galleries, etc., also contributed to the fu •, whil-.t the indispensable kiss-in-the-ring flourished immensely. The exhibits, which were very few in number, were grouped at the end of the school building. The prizes were awarded as follows:—For best and n'steat cottage garden—1, F. Hayward, junr., and E. Gale, junr.; 2, Mra. Jenkins, juDr,, and H. Mo jre 3, W. Price and G. Williams. Competition was so keen in the above class that each Prize had to be divided be- tween two competitors. For the best collection of vegetables—1, F. Hayward, junr. 2, Mrs. W. Price; 3, Francis. For the best collection of fruit—1, Mrs. Jenkins, junr.; 2, F. Hayward, junr.; 3, Mrs. Williams. For the best cottage loaf-I, Mrs. Farr; 2, Mrs. Price. For the best bunch of wild flowers-I, Mrs. Farr 2, T. Morgan For the best bunch of cut flowers-I, Annie Rogers; 2, Kate Jenkins. For best flower in pot-I, Mrs. Rogers. The secretarial duties wereotrried out by the Rev. W. W. Jones (Vicar), and the judges were Mrs.. Boulton, Miis Boulton ani Mrs. Silus- bury for flowers and bread, and the Rev. C. T. Salusbury for gardens, vegetables and fruit.

NEWPORT. Agents— Messrs Greenland and Co., Newsagent* INFIRMARY APPOINTMENT.—At a meeting of the directors of the Newport Infirmary, held on Tuesday afternoon, Mr. R. Halstead Dixon, M.B., Lond., late of St. Mary's Hospital, London, was appointed house surgeon in succession to Dr. Hacquoil, who recently resigned the position. ANOTHER DEATH FROM THE S.S. NADOR EXPLO- sION.-Early on Monday morning, Pedro Fonte- betre, a Spaniard, one of the two men who were dreadfully injured on Thursday, 29th ult., by the explosion in the bunker of the steamship Nador, laden with coal from Newport to Constantinople, succumbed to his injuries at the Newport and Mon- mouthshire Infirmary, where be had been lying since the fearful accident. His companion, the Italian, it will be remembered, died on Friday, and the inquest touching his death stands adjourned pending the return of the steamer. Both were fire- men. An inquest will also be necessary in this case. PRESENTATION TO THE REV. J. T. WRENFORD.— The Rev. J. T. Wrenford, Vicar of St. Paul's Church, Newport, who this week completes the fiftieth anniversary of his ministerial career, was this day (Friday) week presented with a testimonial in the shape of a purse of gold, containing JE125, and an illuminated address. This was subscribed for by both members of the church and a large num- ber of communicants at other places of worship, and a number of Nonconformists. The venerable Vicar has been at St. Paul's for the last 44 years, and prior to that time was connected with St. Mary's Church, Cardiff. The meeting, held at the Tem- perance Hall, was presided over by Mr. 0. D. Phillips, J.P., and congratulatory addresses were given by Archdeacon Bruce and several Noncon- formist ministers. PRESENTATION.—On Monday evening a public meeting was held in the Church Schoolroom, Risca, for the purpose of making a presentation to Superintendent Parry on the occasion of his leaving Risca and in recognition of his useful services. The chair was occupied by Councillor J. R. Jacob, J.P., and he was supported on the platform by Messrs. E. Southwood Jones, J.P., W. Lyndon Moore (Newport), the Rev. Basil Williams, M.A., and Mr. T. Williams (Heathfield), secretary. The presentations were made by Councillor Jacob and Mr. Southwood Jones. Speeches were delivered by several gentlemen, all of whom spoke in the highest terms of the qualities of Mr. Parry both as a police officer and as a gentleman-Mr. Patry suitably and feelingly responded. The testimonial took the form of a beautiful American oak writing desk and a purse of money. BANKRUPTCY COURT.-At the monthly sitting of this Court, held on Thursday morning at the Town Hall, Newport, before the Registrar, Mr. H. J. Davis, there were three new cases and one adjourned case. The latter, that of Mr. John William Evans, farmer, Portskewett, was further adjourned for a reason assigned by the Deputy Official Receiver, Mr. W. Clark, who acted in the unavoidable absence of Mr G. H. Llewellyn and one of the three new cases was also adjourned. This was the public examination of William Roberts, solicitor, Coleford, and the Deputy Official Receiver stated that it was intended to proceed by motion to dispense with the public examination on account of the debtor's state of health not permitting him to attend. The debtor has been in business as solicitor since 1848, and is therefore aged. His father was formerly connected with the Registrnrship of Newport County Court. The meeting of creditors, the Deputy Official Receiver informed the Court, was held last week, and Mr. W. S. Poole, of Monmouth, was appointed trustee, with a committee of inspection. Thomas Bennett, jobbing mason, St. Briavel's Common, and Charles GreensJade, draper, of Cwmbran, then underwent their public examinations, which were closed, subject to the usual formalities.

I PONTYPOOL. I Agents —Mr.J. Harding, Market Bookstall, ctml Messrs. J Jones and Edwards I BANKRUPTCY.—The London Gazette of Tuesday contains notice of a receiving order in the case of Charles Edward Francis, grocer and provision dealer, High-street, Pontypool. ST. JAMES'S CHURCH CHOIR OUTING. The annual outing of the members took place on Tuesday, at Symonds Yat. A saloon carriage was attached to the early train from Clarence-street to convey the party. The Vicar, Churchwardens and Organist accompanied the choir, and a delightful day was spent. SCHOOL BOARD MEETING.—The Trevethia School Board met at the Town Hall on Tuesday evening, Mr. J. Daniel, J.P., in the chair. The plans of the new classroom for the Pontypool Board School were returned from the Education Department as approved, permission being granted to borrow X503 for the carrying out of the work.—A communication was received from the Education Department re the puichase of a house for the headmaster of the Park Terrace School. This stated that before purchasing the Board should obtain the certificate of a competent surveyor as to its value.—It was resolved that such a certificate be obtained from Mr. Daniell, and also that a sum of £ 650 be borrowed for the purpose of buying the house. MINING DISPUTE AT LLANHILLETH.—At a meet- ing of miners held at the Viaduct Hall, Crumlin, on Monday afternoon, it was decided by a large vote that the men should remain idle until the management agreed to the arrangement of hours proposed by the men under the shortened hours system recently conceded. By this resolution over 1,000 men were withdrawn from work.—A Mass meeting of the miners of Llanhilleth was held on Wednesday morning in a field neur the Royal Oak Llanhilleth.—Mr. David Pritchard, who presided, was supported by Mr. William Brace, miners' agent, Messrs. Mogg, N. Smith, and J. Day. The Chait- man gave the report of a deputation which waited on the managers on Tuesday. He first said they had made a mistake in leaving work in the manner they had done. Mr. W. Brace advised the men to consider their position, which, in his opinion, did not warrant them asking the support of their fel- lows. Mr. Mogg, secretaiy, reported that at a meeting of the committee that morning they had decided to recommend the men to accept the terms offered to the deputation pending further negotia- tions, This was carried by a very large majority, only six voting against it. The men will, there- fore, return to work. A

RAGLAN. I Agent—Mr. T. R. Jones, Grocer, Corner Shop SUICIDE.-On Tuesday, between 12 and 1 o'clock, a married woman named Harriet Cook, living with her husband at a cottage on the Monmouth- road, hanged herself. The husband who is a blacksmith, employed at the West End Works, Raglan, left his wife in the morning apparently in her usual spirits. On returning to dinner his wife was not indoors, though preparations were in progress for the meal, the potatoes cooking on the fire. After searching upstairs he proceeded outside, aud was horrified to find his wife hanging just outside the back door and quite dead. The .police were sent for, and the usual inquest will ensue. It is understood the unhappy woman left a note stating she was tired of life.

It was proposed by Mr. Hiley, seconded by Mr. Mundy, and ultimately resolved, that the requisition be deposited at the Clerk's (Mr. Lucas's) house, so that the necessary twenty signatures of owners or a aritepayers may be attached. THE JUBILEE CLOCK. Mr. Vovce mentioned the fact that the chain of the Jubilee Clock was strained, and that Mr. Symonds had advised that a new one be procured. The matter was discussed at some length, but ultimately referred to the Street Committee. IFINAL.1 The Council then went into Committee on the Cattle Market question, and this terminated the proceedings. ♦